It’s not all hustle and bustle though. Minoh City, a short train ride to the north of Osaka offers an easy getaway to the mountains, the historic and beautiful Katsuoji Temple, and the scenic Minoh Waterfall.
In Japan, getting older is a celebration. In the tradition known as Toshiiwai, elders are celebrated as they reach age milestones.
In the Land of the Rising Sun, September marks the waxing of autumn and the traditional harvest season in which local customs such as “tsukimi” (moon viewing), “inekari” (rice harvesting) and “Higan” memorial services take place throughout Japan.
Although summer may be over, in Okinawa the temperature is still pretty warm.
Tokyo’s Shinjuku District with its many clubs, bars, izakaya pubs and karaoke boxes may be a nightlife destination, but there is plenty to enjoy when the sun’s out too.
.jpg/alternates/LANDSCAPE_480/Sensoji%20Temple%20in%20Asakusa%20Tokyo%209.jpg)
Among the many options you have for attractions in Tokyo, Asakusa’s old temple should absolutely be at the top of the list.
Just a few minutes away from the world’s busiest train station, you’ll find a sprawling oasis to escape the crowds.
Today, just like the National and American Leagues in Major League Baseball, there are two leagues in the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) - Central and Pacific.
In Yokohama, you don’t have to wait until the weekend to shop fresh produce, seafood and other items at a wholesale market.
Occasionally, I like to test my luck and gamble away a few dollars. Since casino gambling is illegal in Japan and pachinko slots seem like they require a little more money to play, I go to the horses.
_3.jpg/alternates/LANDSCAPE_480/Coaska%20at%206%20May%205%202026_3.JPG)
I pass through the glass vestibule into Coaska Bayside Stores. Up the escalator, and I am met by a steady bustle of shoppers and commuters navigating the mall.
Just like in America, horse racing is one of Japan’s popular pastimes. Who dare can resist the excitement? Horses bolting from the starting gate amid a cloud of dust. Hooves clopping and whips cracking as tens of thousands cheer them on. In Japan, about 15.5 million fans attend about 21,000 races annually.
I really enjoy streaming shows on Netflix. After, I can’t wait for the next season to arrive. To express my expectation in Japanese, I would say:
Naturally, different countries have different cultures! One of the things related to culture is the “toilet situation.” You may ask, “Isn’t a restroom always the same in every country?” What about it?
Taste of Japan
Best of Pacific
Destination Paradise
Welcome to the Pacific